For the first time since the COVID‑19 era, Apple's iPhones claimed the top sales spot in China for May, marking a major comeback in its second‑largest global market . According to Counterpoint Research, the leap helped power an impressive 15% year-on-year jump in global iPhone sales during April and May - the strongest two-month surge in years.

Analysts attribute Apple's resurgence to a bold pricing strategy in China, with discounts of up to 2,530 yuan (~$350) on iPhone 16 models through e-commerce channels . This move was aimed squarely at countering fierce domestic rivals and mitigating tariff pressures. Ivan Lam, Senior Analyst at Counterpoint, noted that while the quarter looks promising, future performance remains intricately tied to trends in China and the U.S. .

Despite earlier setbacks - like declining shipments due to subsidy-driven preference for cheaper brands - Apple's newfound momentum suggests its Chinese strategy is paying off . Whether this uptick can endure amid ongoing competition and geopolitical tensions is now the central question for investors and industry watchers alike.